ADVOCACY group CSO Platform for Reform wants Hasnal Rezua Merican Habib Merican to step down from his post as a commissioner in the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) immediately.

This comes after Umno named Hasnal as its candidate for the Kuang seat in the state elections.

Selangor, along with Negri Sembilan, Penang, Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, will to the polls on August 12.

“The appointment of a political leader to a significant position in Suhakam raises serious questions about the commission’s independence and its ability to function without any external influence.

“Suhakam’s primary purpose is to safeguard the principles of accountability and respect for human rights. However, the inclusion of a political leader in Suhakam raises concerns that the commission’s function may be compromised,” the group said in a statement.

It also said Suhakam, as the country’s top institution advocating human rights, must be free of any political and executive influence. 

It added the presence of a political leader in Suhakam is a concern, especially since Hasnal’s party is also part of the ruling government today. 

“The potential for conflicts of interest raises further concerns. Thus we also emphasise the need for scrutiny of the appointments of new commissioners made last year.

“Political leaders should not be appointed to the office of commissioner to ensure Suhakam’s independence.

“CSO Platform for Reform calls upon Hasnal to uphold the integrity of Suhakam by immediately resigning from his commissioner post.”

Recently, former Suhakam commissioner Jerald Joseph also called for Hasnal to resign from his post in the commission immediately.

“The office of commissioner must be seen as independent and not politically affiliated. You can’t do that if you’re the leader of a political party.

Hasnal was among the new Suhakam commissioners who were appointed in July last year, alongside Noor Aziah Awal, former Malaysian Bar president Ragunath Kesavan, Nordin Ibrahim, Dr Chew Chee Ming, Mary @ Mariati Robert and Nazira Abdul Rahim. – July 25, 2023.